Top 5 Books Aspiring Managers Should Read in 2024

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Javarevisited

5 min readJan 21, 2024

Hello guys, if you want to become a Manager, Software lead, or technical lead and want to prepare and looking for recommended reading then you have come to the right place.

In the fast-paced world of management, staying ahead requires continuous learning and adaptation. Aspiring managers can gain invaluable insights, leadership skills, and practical knowledge from the following top five books carefully curated for 2024:

1. The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo

Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Published: March 19, 2019
Julie Zhuo’s “The Making of a Manager” is an instant Wall Street Journal bestseller that serves as a modern field guide for anyone stepping into a managerial role. Based on Zhuo’s personal experiences, the book is packed with everyday examples and transformative insights.
It covers essential topics such as distinguishing great managers from average ones, hiring strategies, building trust with your team, and leading with confidence in unexpected situations. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned leader, this handbook is an essential resource for becoming the manager you wish you had.
If you need a course to go along this book, you can further check Management Skills Training for New & Experienced Managers course by Lawrence M. Miller on Udemy.

2. Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Published: October 9, 2018
Brené Brown’s “Dare to Lead” challenges traditional notions of leadership, emphasizing courage, vulnerability, and empathy. Based on extensive research, Brown presents leadership as the responsibility to recognize and develop the potential in people and ideas.
The book provides a roadmap for daring leadership, offering skills that are 100% teachable, observable, and measurable. Brown’s insights on cultivating braver, more daring leaders make this book a must-read for those aspiring to step up and lead with whole hearts.
If you need a course to watch along with this book, then New Manager: The Basics and More of Being a Great Leader by Markus Amanto is good one.

3. Simply Said by Jay Sullivan

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Published: October 31, 2016
“Simply Said” by Jay Sullivan is an essential handbook for mastering the art of communication in various scenarios. The book, based on the Exec|Comm philosophy, emphasizes focusing less on oneself and more on others to improve communication skills.
Sullivan covers a wide range of communication scenarios, from tough presentations to everyday transactions. Whether you are looking to inspire, influence, or simply communicate more effectively, “Simply Said” provides comprehensive guidance to help you achieve your goals.
If you need a course particularly for technical managers then Frank Kane’s From Engineer to Technical Manager: A Survival Guide is definitely worth watching along with reading this book.

4. Crucial Conversations by Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars
Published: October 21, 2021
In the third edition of “Crucial Conversations,” the authors equip readers with powerful skills to navigate high-stakes conversations effectively. Whether at work or in personal life, the book teaches how to be persuasive rather than abrasive and provides strategies for mastering difficult conversations.
The updated edition addresses contemporary issues, including effective communication across digital mediums. For aspiring managers, mastering crucial conversations is a critical skill, and this book provides practical tools for achieving success.
If you need a course to learn managerial skill then Management Skills — Team Leadership Skills Masterclass course by Mark Timberlake is definitely worth watching.

5. The Manager’s Path by Camille Fournier

Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars
Published: First Edition
“The Manager’s Path” by Camille Fournier is a practical guide for tech leaders navigating growth and change. Fournier, a tech lead turned CTO, takes readers through each stage of the journey from engineer to technical manager.
The book provides actionable advice for managing individuals, leading teams, and avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you’re a new manager, a mentor, or an experienced leader seeking fresh advice, “The Manager’s Path” offers valuable insights to enhance your managerial and leadership skills.
And, if you need a course to become a Product Manager in 2024 then Become a Product Manager | Learn the Skills & Get the Job course by Cole Mercel and Evan Kimbrell is worth watching.

That’s all about the top 5 books aspiring Managers can read in 2024. In conclusion, these top five books offer a wealth of knowledge, strategies, and real-world examples to guide aspiring managers in their professional journeys. Each book addresses different aspects of leadership, communication, and management, providing a well-rounded approach to becoming an effective and successful manager in 2024 and beyond.

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